Feds urged to telework on anniversary of March on Washington

By Reid Davenport

Aug 26, 2013

As the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington approaches, federal employees in Washington are being encouraged to telework in order to avoid traffic and other complications. (U.S. government archival photo)

In preparation for increased traffic delays expected during Aug. 28's commemorative celebration of the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington, the Office of Personnel Management issued a memorandum last week asking agencies to allow federal employee to telework. The celebration is expected to bring scores of people to the nation's capital and cause increased traffic in the Beltway region.

"OPM strongly urges the use of telework to keep the Government operating while helping to minimize traffic congestion and unproductive time during this event," the Aug. 23 memorandum reads. "Employees who can be spared from their duties may also request to adjust their work schedule and use their alternative work schedule day off or take annual leave, leave without pay, and/or previously earned compensatory time off or earned credit hours under a flexible work schedule."

OPM reiterated that the federal government will indeed be open on Wednesday and that the celebration will impact both the morning and afternoon commutes.

About the Author

Reid Davenport is an FCW editorial fellow. Connect with him on Twitter: @ReidDavenport.